Andy Robertson Could Rock These Squad Numbers If He Joins Tottenham

Andy Robertson expressed his eager excitement about joining Tottenham Hotspur by repeating the same three words: "I cannot wait."

It was an apt sentiment for the former Liverpool left back, who has had to wait five months for a transfer that was first discussed back in January. Liverpool ultimately pulled out of the deal after Arne Slot worried about a shortage of cover, but Spurs maintained their pursuit to secure the free agent's signature.

"I cannot wait to play for you guys, I cannot wait to meet you guys, I cannot wait to play in the stadium for the first time in front of you," a slightly sunburnt Robertson told supporters in a video message recorded from Scotland's training camp in the U.S. ahead of this summer's World Cup. "I'm already looking forward to next season."

Roberto De Zerbi was equally enthusiastic.

"I can't wait to start working with him and seeing the positive impact he will have on everyone around him," the Italian manager said upon Friday's announcement.

"Andy is someone I've admired for a number of years and he will bring outstanding technical qualities, experience, leadership and mentality to our team. He is a proven winner at the highest level over a long period and is someone who can be a big player for us, both on and off the pitch."

What Shirt Number Will Andy Robertson Wear at Tottenham?

Andy Robertson, welcome to our family 🤍 pic.twitter.com/wK9w11nGYJ

It was notable that Tottenham's announcement video for Robertson centered around someone—perhaps narrator Michael Dawson—applying lettering to the back of a Spurs shirt. Robertson's name was spelled out, but no number was added.

Tottenham are planning a hectic summer transfer window in a bid to rebuild a squad that has endured back-to-back 17th-place Premier League finishes. Robertson will hope to be the first of many signings, each with their own number preferences.

Several current squad members will also be departing N17, opening up some digits that Robertson may have his sights set on.

Available Tottenham Shirt Numbers

There are already several options available for Robertson. Numbers 2, 5 and 12 went unassigned throughout the 2025–26 campaign, while João Palhinha's loan is not expected to be made permanent, which would free up the No. 6.

It is yet to be determined whether Luka Vušković (16), Yan Min-hyeok (18) or Kota Takai (25) will permanently return from their respective loan spells and hold onto the shirt numbers assigned to them upon their initial arrivals at Spurs. However, there is one obvious number Robertson would want but may not necessarily be able to claim.

Andy Robertson Shirt Number History

While most left backs tend to favour the No. 3, Robertson has spent the overwhelming majority of his career wearing No. 26. "There was no meaning behind it really," the Scotland international later reflected. "It was the only number available when I joined Dundee United." It would soon take on greater significance. "Just so happens, things have fallen on the 26th since then, such as my son being born!" Robertson explained. "So it means a lot to me."

However, no Tottenham player has been allowed to wear the No. 26 since club legend and former captain Ledley King retired in 2012. The revered skipper, who battled through a career plagued by injuries, wore No. 26 in all 323 appearances he pushed his body through for Tottenham.

While the number has not been officially retired, it remains to be seen whether Spurs will hand these meaningful digits to their newest addition.